The local social housing board will be taking a closer look at pet issues on its properties.
The District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board has asked for a report on issues of numbers, complaints and enforcement when it comes to people with pets in social housing.
Coun. Aldo Ruberto, who also introduced a similar resolution passed by city council Monday for all of Thunder Bay, said there are 10 to 15 people living with multiple pets in social housing. Some allegedly having 20 dogs or 15 cats.
"You can imagine what's happening to the neighbours in terms of their quality of life," Ruberto said during a monthly DSSAB meeting Thursday morning.
The report will also look at whether the board can limit the number of pets through rental agreements. Ruberto said the board has rules for the number of people who can live in a home or apartment.
"But no rules for animals," he said.
Ruberto said it's not about restriction but rights and quality of life for everyone.
"We're going to wait for administration to come back and give us the report and give us the recommendations as experts," he said.
DSSAB acting CAO Bill Bradica said while pet ownership isn't the biggest issue facing social housing, there have been some concerns.
"We have had some complaints from tenants," he said.
